Christian Education Adult Ed Classes

Fall 2010 Bible Studies and Book Discussions

OLDER AND WISER BIBLE STUDY (Tuesday mornings, 9:30-11:00)

Starting on Tuesday, October 12th, we will begin a DVD study, In the Dust of the Rabbi. “Follow the rabbi, drink in his words, and be covered with the dust of his feet,” says the ancient Jewish proverb. Disciples followed so closely that they would be covered with the dust kicked up by the rabbi’s feet. Come, discover how to follow Jesus as you walk with teacher and historian Ray Vander Laan through the breathtaking terrain of Israel and Turkey and explore what it really means to be a disciple.

We welcome you to join us and ask that you sign up in the office by September 15th to allow time to order the accompanying book. Led by Sandy Van Ness.


CHRISTIANITY’S FAMILY TREE: What Other Christians Believe and Why by Adam Hamilton (Wednesday evenings, 7:15-9:15)

Why do Orthodox Christians use icons in worship? What is the “baptism in the Holy Spirit” that Pentecostals speak about? Why do Roman Catholics focus on the Eucharist in worship? What do Lutherans teach us about salvation? What do Presbyterians teach us about God’s power? How can Episcopalians deepen our prayer life? What can Baptists teach us about living for Christ?

This course will begin answering these questions and more in this eight-session, video-and-book study.  Participants will learn of the history, theology, and distinctive emphases of eight different Christian denominations and faith traditions. For each tradition, participants will hear from a clergy member of that tradition and look at Scriptures that have shaped that faith.

The study, led by Amy Marshall and Julie Kessler, is 8 weeks, beginning on Wednesday, September 15th.


THE PATRIARCHS—Encountering the God Of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob by Beth Moore (Thursday mornings, 9:15-11:15)


This study will explore important concepts such as blessings, covenant, and promise, and how they forever shaped the lives of Abraham and his descendants. Through this study, you will discover God’s pursuit of relationship and the unfolding of His earthly plan: How through one nation—and ultimately one man—all people on earth will be blessed.


Join Susan Holbrook in this 11-week journey through part of the book of Genesis (Genesis 12-50). We will begin on Thursday, September 16th with a brief orientation and then we will watch the introductory first DVD lesson. Class will begin promptly at 9:15 and will end by 11:15 AM. Our first meeting will probably end earlier than 11:15.  Coffee will be available beginning at 9:00 AM.


If you are interested in signing up for this class, there is a clip board in the narthex that you can add your name to and Susan will order a participant guide for you. There is a sample participant guide there for you to look at as well.


SURPRISED BY HOPE: Rethinking Heaven, the Resurrection, and the Mission of the Church, by N. T. Wright (Tuesday mornings, 9:15-11:00)

Christians normally think of the future in terms of “heaven”, but the promised reality is far greater: a new heaven and a new earth, a whole new creation. Once you grasp this biblical vision of God’s future, it will transform your understanding of life in the present.

In six transforming, faith-inspiring sessions, premier biblical scholar N. T. Wright opens your eyes to the amazing full scope of what God’s Word has to say about the world to come and the world that is. Lively and accessible, this book will surprise and excite all who are interested in the meaning of life, not only after death but before it. 

Join us for this 6-week DVD based book discussion beginning September 21st.  Led by Margi Goetz.  Please sign up in the Narthex or call the church office by September 15.



MEN’S BREAKFAST GROUP/BOOK DISCUSSION

Books, Bacon and Eggs Men’s Breakfast - If you are an early bird and would like to spend some time in fellowship over breakfast discussing a book having to do with the Christian faith, the Men’s Breakfast might be just up your alley. Beginning in the fall and running through the spring, and we meet twice a month on Tuesday mornings at 6:15 a.m. The food is delicious, the conversation stimulating, and you will be off to work at 7:00 a.m. Meetings are scheduled to start on October 19. If you are interested, talk with Pastor Phil.